Kidnapped Catholic priest in Zamfara released after two weeks

Mikah Suleiman, the parish priest of St. Raymond Catholic Church in Damba, Gusau, Zamfara State, has been set free from the bandits who abducted him two weeks prior.

On Sunday, July 7, 2024, Pascal Salifu, the director of communications for the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, made the announcement of Suleiman's release public.

"We are overjoyed to announce the safe release of Fr. Mikah Suleiman, who was kidnapped on June 22, 2024," the message said.

We sincerely thank God for His protection and all of the people who prayed and offered support throughout this trying period.

"We also like to thank everyone who helped secure Fr. Mikah's release, including the authorities. He is presently getting the assistance and care he needs.

Salifu pleaded with the public to "keep him in your prayers as he begins his recovery.”
The incident occurred early today, and the Reverend Father was taken from his home, according to state Police Public Relations Officer Yazid Abubakar, who confirmed the priest's kidnapping on Saturday. Although the incident occurred before we were told, I learned that the man does not reside in the church and instead lives alone.

"Our tactical squad has been dispatched to pursue the kidnappers in an attempt to save the victim without any injuries."

Furthermore, Nuhu Iliya, the acting chancellor of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, has exhorted the faithful to pray for the priest's "quick and safe release."

We also praise the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Priests, for her mighty intercession in securing his swift escape from the clutches of his abductors,” Iliya said.
Gabriel Ukeh, the parish priest of St. Thomas Parish in Zaman Dabo Community, Zango Kataf Local Government Area, Kaduna State, was kidnapped by robbers at the beginning of June 2024.

Early on Sunday morning, the rectory was the scene of the kidnapping of the parish priest.

In a news release on Sunday, Emmanuel Kazah, the Vicar General (Pastoral), revealed this.